Saint Thomas Health recently signed a letter of intent with Tennessee Women's Care, the largest obstetrics and gynecology group in Middle Tennessee. Together, the two organizations plan to develop a Clinically Integrated Alliance agreement that will include shared strategy and clinical integration.

"Today's healthcare environment calls for new and innovative models of partnership, and this new approach prepares us for the future, while continuing to emphasize the historical commitment of Saint Thomas Health to collaborate with private physicians," said Fahad Tahir, President and CEO of Saint Thomas Midtown and West Hospitals. "This venture highlights the priority of Saint Thomas Health to be the partner of choice for independent physician practices."

Originally established in 1997 as Women's Health Alliance, Tennessee Women's Care has a long history of serving Middle Tennessee in multiple locations. Saint Thomas Health and Tennessee Women's Care have a longstanding relationship in the downtown market. Over the years, as the healthcare environment has changed, the relationship has evolved into Rutherford County as well.

Dr. Roy Burch, board chairman for Tennessee Women's Care noted, "Our planned partnership with Saint Thomas Health will create greater communication between our clinical care teams, providing important opportunities for quality care coordination - an absolute necessity for the future. Saint Thomas Health's willingness to work side-by-side with quality, dedicated physicians in the Nashville market is well known, and it has led to the center of excellence our community now enjoys. We are pleased to be a vital part of that successful story."

"We are confident the partnership will complement the independent OB/GYN practices which are affiliated with Saint Thomas Health, allowing us to continue providing high-quality affordable care to meet the unique needs of each woman we have the privilege of serving," said Kristen Toth, Vice President of Women's and Children's Services at Saint Thomas Health.